Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Clean the fish: Start by cleaning and patting dry the 2 large tilapia fillets with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the batter stick better and results in a crispier coating.
Season lightly: Sprinkle a small pinch of salt over the fillets. Let them sit for about 5 minutes while you prepare the dry batter. This allows the salt to enhance the flavor of the fish without overpowering its natural taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Batter
Mix the dry ingredients: On a flat plate or shallow bowl, mix together the dry batter ingredients: 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of red chili flakes, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme.
Coat the fish: Take the seasoned fillets and coat them on both sides with the dry batter mixture. Make sure each fillet is evenly coated, then gently shake off any excess flour. This light coating will give the fish a nice, crispy exterior when pan-fried.
Step 3: Infuse the Oil
Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wide pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over low flame.
Infuse with garlic: Add the 2 crushed garlic cloves to the heated oil. Let them sizzle gently and infuse the oil with a subtle garlic flavor. Once the garlic begins to brown slightly, remove it from the pan to avoid burning.
Step 4: Cook the Fish
Melt the butter: After removing the garlic, add 2 tablespoons of butter to the infused oil. Let it melt and combine with the garlic-flavored oil. If you’re using salted butter, skip any additional salt in the batter to keep the dish from being overly salty.
Fry the fish: Turn the heat to medium and gently place the flour-coated tilapia fillets into the pan. Be careful as the fillets can be delicate and break easily.
Cook each side: Fry the fillets for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Tilapia is a tender fish, so it doesn’t take long to cook. Flip the fillets carefully using a spatula, ensuring that the fish remains intact.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Add lemon juice: Once the fish is cooked through and golden brown, remove the pan from the heat. Squeeze the juice of 1/4 lemon over the fillets to add a tangy brightness that balances the richness of the butter and garlic.
Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the fillets for a fresh, herbal note that complements the savory flavors.
Serve immediately: Transfer the fish to a serving plate and enjoy with your favorite side dishes. A fresh salad, sautéed vegetables, or roasted potatoes are all excellent accompaniments to this flavorful dish.
Cooking Tips
Be gentle with tilapia: Tilapia fillets can be quite delicate, so handle them carefully when flipping them in the pan. Use a wide spatula to support the entire fillet and prevent it from breaking.
Butter and oil combination: The combination of olive oil and butter adds flavor and prevents the butter from burning too quickly. This allows you to cook the fish at a higher temperature for a crispy finish without sacrificing flavor.
Add more herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, or cilantro if you prefer. These herbs complement fish well and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your personal spice preference. If you want more heat, add a bit more red chili flakes, or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 2 Servings)
Calories: 400 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fat: 24 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Cholesterol: 130 mg
Sodium: 800 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Calcium: 80 mg
Iron: 1.5 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe works well with other white fish such as cod, haddock, or sole. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish should be opaque and easily flake apart when gently pressed with a fork. If the fillets are still translucent in the center, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
It’s best to cook this dish right before serving to maintain the crispy texture of the fish. However, you can prepare the dry batter and chop the ingredients ahead of time to save on preparation.
What can I serve with pan-fried tilapia?
This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as sautéed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with steamed rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, or use rice flour for a crisp, gluten-free coating.
Conclusion
Pan-Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter and Herbs is an easy and flavorful recipe that showcases the delicate taste of tilapia, paired with a crispy coating and rich, buttery sauce. The garlic-infused oil and fresh herbs add layers of flavor, while the lemon juice brightens up the dish with a tangy twist. Perfect for a quick and elegant meal, this tilapia recipe can be paired with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal. The recipe’s simplicity, combined with its bold flavors, ensures that it will become a favorite in your kitchen!
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